Military and naval science

VTOL UAV land-based test phase concludes

Article Abstract:

The vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) land-based demonstrations sponsored by the US Navy were recently concluded at Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ. The land-based test phase is designed to show current VTOL UAV technology and the ability to operate from a 24-foot landing area. The test, which also examined life cycle cost analysis and payload capacity, was characterized by the service as highly successful with two of three participating aircraft meeting the 50-hour flight requirement. The Marine Corps has yet to make formal procurement plans for a VTOL UAV, but an operations requirement document for a VTOL airframe is pending.

VTOL UAV: enabling operational maneuver from the sea

Article Abstract:

US Marines officials are committed to the development of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology to advance the service's goal of operational maneuver from the sea. The service's commitment remains unwavering even with the loss of two VTOL UAV demonstrators, Vigilante and Guardian. Currently, both Bell Helicopter Textron's Eagle Eye and Bombardier's Guardian VTOL UAVs will join in the shipboard test phase.